Part 3, Chapter 1 Summary

DeShawn and Drew attempt to console Mick, telling him the loss to Foothill wasn't his fault. They believe that Foothill's players are using steroids. Later that day, a rumor circulates that Coach Downs would be quitting. That Thursday, there is an after-school meeting for the football team, which Coach Downs addresses. Coach Downs is quitting to take on a job as offensive coordinator at Pacific Lutheran.

Mr. Carlson, a custodian, will become Downs's replacement. Carlson stresses respect for individuals and teams. He also arranges to bring the team to a 4A championship game in Tacoma. In the library, Mick discovers that Carlson has a stellar record as a coach at Snohomish High School, but quit. After he quit, the team went downhill. This causes Mick to question why Carlson left.

Before Coach Downs leaves, he tells Mick that Mick is fast...